Job Description
Homelessness Prevention and Relief Officer
We are currently recruiting for an experienced Homelessness Prevention and Relief Officer to join a busy Housing Operations team within a Local Authority.
This is a rewarding opportunity for a housing professional who is passionate about preventing homelessness and supporting vulnerable residents to secure and sustain suitable accommodation.
The successful candidate will be responsible for providing comprehensive housing advice and assistance to households who are homeless or threatened with homelessness. You will manage a varied caseload, undertake housing needs assessments, develop Personalised Housing Plans (PHPs), and work proactively with applicants to achieve positive housing outcomes.
Key Responsibilities:
• Provide housing advice, homelessness prevention and relief services to residents.
• Conduct housing needs assessments and develop tailored Personalised Housing Plans.
• Manage a caseload of homelessness applications from initial assessment through to resolution.
• Make decisions in accordance with homelessness legislation and issue relevant notifications.
• Work closely with landlords, housing associations, support providers and partner agencies.
• Attend multi-agency meetings and case conferences where required.
• Maintain accurate case notes, records and database information.
• Support households facing housing crises, including those with complex needs.
• Contribute to reducing homelessness and rough sleeping within the area.
Essential Requirements:
• Experience working within a homelessness, housing options or frontline housing service.
• Good knowledge of homelessness legislation, including the Housing Act 1996 and Homelessness Reduction Act 2017.
• Experience managing housing cases and supporting vulnerable households.
• Strong communication, negotiation and customer service skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage competing priorities.
• Experience working with a range of internal and external partners.
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office applications.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle for work purposes.